WO2007147849A1

WO2007147849A1 - Device and method for the support of ip telephony in a consumer electronics environment

Info

Publication number: WO2007147849A1
Application number: PCT/EP2007/056142
Authority: WO
Inventors: Reiner Goldmann; Norbert LÖBIG
Original assignee: Nokia Siemens Networks Gmbh & Co. Kg
Priority date: 2006-06-21
Filing date: 2007-06-20
Publication date: 2007-12-27
Also published as: DE102006028502A1; DE102006028502C5; CN101507255B; EP2036322B1; CN101507255A; DE102006028502B4; EP2036322A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for the support of IP telephony in a consumer electronics environment, a receiver unit control unit (4) controlling a consumer electronics receiver unit (STB) and a signal processing unit (5) processing a received consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) and/or a telecommunications input signal (ND-NE) and, based on this signal, producing a consumer electronics output signal (ND-TV) and/or a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA), an IP telephony client (6) establishing an IP telephony connection via a telecommunications interface (3). The invention allows the inexpensive and highly flexible implementation of an IP video telephony extension into a conventional consumer electronics environment.

Description

description

Apparatus and method for supporting IP telephony in a consumer electronics environment

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for supporting IP telephony in a consumer electronics environment, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for telephony support for a so-called set-top box.

In particular to receive digital TV signals now receive units are used, "set top boxes" are those also cited the ^so-¬. General refer to such "set-top boxes" peripheral devices that a Ver ^¬ connection to a Produce consumer electronics output device such as a TV (TV) and a variety of different user data sources such as broadcast, video on demand (VoD) and so-called "walled Gar ^¬ den" content from the Internet can relate.

In this way, for example, a television viewer receives via a same transmission medium, which also allows telephony in the context of the convergence of networks, access to broadcast TV, video on demand and the Internet. The support of video telephony over IP and in particular IP telephony in such a consumer electronics environment is therefore increasingly required.

For example, a conventional device supporting video telephony in a consumer electronics environment is the Siemens Speedstream 8700 set-top box, which combines the features of a conventional set-top box with the characteristics of an IP - Combines telephony terminal, which now also video / audio telephony features are made possible via a set-top box.However, due to the full-custom implementation of such a video-telephony capable set-top box has a increased complexity that th in both the Herstellungskos ^¬ negatively reflected as well in the outer dimensions. Moreover, not only a conventional packet-switched network such as the Internet, but also a leitungsvermit ^¬ telndes network such as the conventional fixed network (PSTN, Public Switched Telephone Network) is required for this conventional device. Insbeson ^¬ more complete, however, given to alternative set-top boxes of competing manufacturers no compatibility.

Alternatively, video telephony extensions for consumer electronics environments are known in which an expansion unit for ^¬ Language for connecting conventional telephones or telecommunications terminals and a cable-enabled set-top box can be connected.

The invention is based on the object of providing an apparatus and a method for supporting of IP telephony in a to provide consumer electronics environment, which is inexpensive and an increased interoper- rabilität to existing devices in the Unterhal ^¬ consumer electronics environment has.

According to the invention this object is with regard to the Vorrich- processing by the features of claim 1 and Lich ^¬ respect of the process by the measures of claim 17 dissolved.

In particular, by providing a Empfangseinheit- control unit for controlling a consumer electronics receiving unit, a signal processing unit for proces ^¬ therein a consumer electronics received input signal and / or a telecommunications input signal and for generating a consumer electronics output signal and / or a telecommunications

Output signal and an IP telephony client for Reali ^¬ tion of an IP telephony connection via a telecommunications interface and a control unit for controlling the Signal processing unit, the IP telephony client and the receiving unit control unit can in any sub ^¬ haltungselektronik environment in a particularly cost-effective way a telephony and especially video telephony support are made possible.

Preferably, the dedicated device of the invention has an audio data interface for receiving an input audio signal and an image data interface is for receiving an input image signal, wherein the audio and image input signal to the signal processing unit supplied ^¬. This allows full telephony support within a consumer electronics environment.

Further, an input interface may be, for transmitting / receiving input control data to / from an input unit vorgese ^¬ be hen, wherein the input control data is transmitted from / to the control unit. In this way, an additional user control of telephony extension can be made possible, for example via a remote control.

For example, a signal selection can be carried out in the signal processing unit, wherein a signal is selected as consumer electronics output signal from the telecommunication input signal or the consumer electronics input signal. Further, between the Au ^¬ dio- or image input signal or the entertainment electric ^¬ nik-input signal as output signal telecommunications Removing be selected.

Alternatively or additionally, a signal mixing are performed by the signal processing unit, where ^¬ by, for example, enables applications such as "Picture in Picture" (Picture in Picture, PIP) or mixing of the audio signals ^¬ the. Further, a signal format conversion can be performed in the signal processing unit of the above-mentioned signals, as far as they have different signal formats, thereby obtaining a skillful utilization of the resources present in the whole system. The realization of answering machines and the like with the aid of existing in the consumer electronics environment recording devices with different signal formats is made possible.

Furthermore, the signal processing unit can perform an echo compensation ^¬ tion, wherein signal components in the audio and / or image input signal are completely or partially extinguished, provided that they are correlated with the consumer electronics input signal. In this case, special ^¬ DERS user-comfortable telephony applications can be realized.

The receiving unit-controller may, for example, an input signal selection control of the consumer electronics receiving unit, whereby an increased ANPAS ^¬ sungsfähigkeit results of the overall system. In particular, a reception functionality of the consumer electronics receiving unit can be controlled, whereby, for example, a TV application is switched off or limited in the case of bandwidth restrictions, for example in favor of the telephony application.

Further, the receiving unit-control unit may include a Aufzeich ^¬-voltage functionality to control a respective consumer electronics-receiving unit, whereby in particular in Verbin ^¬ tion with the above-described signal format conversion of multimedia answering machine functions very easy taking advantage can be realized by existing resources.

Preferably, the consumer electronics receiver unit is controlled by the receiver unit controller via the interface used for telecommunications. in principle However, specially provided control ^{interface ¬ points} can be provided, via which an immediate control of the consumer electronics receiver units is possible.

With regard to the method of supporting IP telephony in an entertainment electronics environment, first, consumer electronics input signals and telecommunications input signals and, in the telecommunications input signals, an IP telephony connection are detected and monitored. In dependence on the detected IP telephone service connection a consumer electronics is then driven receiving unit and generating a Unterhal ^¬ consumer electronics output signal and / or a telecommuni- cation-output signal operates the input signals received ^¬ ver. The consumer electronics so generated or Te lekommunikations output signals are then ben ausgege ^¬. In this way, telephony and in particular video telephony support can be realized for the first time using any conventional devices in an entertainment electronics environment.

In the subclaims further advantageous Ausgestal ^¬ tions of the invention are characterized.

The invention will be described below with reference to Ausführungsbeispie ^¬ len with reference to the drawings.

Show it:

Figure 1 is a simplified block diagram of a device for supporting IP telephony;

FIG. 2 shows a simplified illustration of an entertainment electronics environment with IP telephony extension according to the invention; FIGS. 3A to 3C are a simplified diagram illustrating an entertainment electronics environment with IP telephony extension according to a first embodiment;

4 shows a simplified block diagram for Veranschauli ^¬ monitoring a consumer electronics environment, with IP telephony extension according to a second embodiment;

5 shows a simplified block diagram for Veranschauli ^¬ monitoring a consumer electronics environment, with IP telephony extension according to a third embodiment;

FIGS. 6A to 6C are a simplified block diagram illustrating an entertainment electronics environment with IP telephony extension according to a fourth embodiment;

Figs. 7A and 7B are a simplified block diagram illustrating an entertainment electronics environment with IP telephony extension according to a fifth embodiment; and

FIG. 8 is a simplified flowchart for illustrating essential method steps in realizing an IP telephony extension in an entertainment electronics environment.

Figure 1 shows a simplified block diagram of the inventive device for supporting IP telephony, as it can be implemented in a consumer electronics environment.

The invention is described here by way of example with reference to a set-top box extension STBE, as used in a consumer electronics environment for telephony. Extension of an already existing STB STB can be used.

According to Figure 1, the set-top box extension STBE to an output interface 1 to send a Unterhal ^¬ consumer electronics output signal ND-TV (TV payload) to a consumer electronics output unit TV. Accordingly, the consumer electronic output unit may be a TV forth ^¬ kömmlicher TV, the user data, a corresponding output signal ND TV is output for display on the Output signal interface. 1 The set-top box extension STBE also has an input signal interface 2 at which an entertainment electronics input signal ND-STB (as user data input signal) is received by a consumer electronics receiver unit STB. The receiving unit, for example, a herkömmli ^¬ che set-top box STB is present but not limited to be ^¬.

Although the input signal interface 2 is usually designed only for receiving a consumer electronics input signal, it can basically also be configured bidirectionally, whereby signals can also be sent to the consumer electronics receiver unit via this interface. Conventional designed solely for the reception

However, receiving units STB have so far no such bi-directional interface.

Further, the set-top box extension STBE a telecommunications nikationsschnittstelle 3 for transmitting / receiving of telecom output / input signals, wherein between signaling data SD, user data output ND NA and Nutzda ^¬ th input signal ND-NE is distinguished. The telecommunication interface 3 preferably represents a so-called IP interface (IP-I), whereby a connection to a packet- ^switching network N can be made possible. To implement the actual telephony extension, the set-top box extension STBE also has a so-called IP telephony client 6 which, with the aid of the signaling data SD of the telecommunications interface 3 via the packet-switched network N, has a voice connection, but also an image - or video connection allows.

Further,-top box extension set STBE provided in the signal processing unit 5 receives the received consumer electronics input signal ND-STB and / or the TeIe- communication input signal ND-NE and handle on ver ^¬ most varied ways can. Here, a consumer electronics output ND-TV, which is output via the interface 1, and / or a telecommuni- cations output ND-NA, which is applied via the interface 3 from ^¬ be generated. In this way, the A ^¬ can output signals in different ways are processed and output as different outputs.

Furthermore, the set-top box extension STBE a receiving unit control unit 4 on which the Unterhaltungselekt ^¬ ronik reception unit STB ie, can be controlled, for example, herkömmli ^¬ che set-top box. The control can take place here via an optional additional control interface 11 or via the telecommunications used

Interface 3, wherein the receiving unit STB also have a suitable interface and must be connected via a network with the extension STBE. The signal processing unit 5, the IP telephony client 6 and the receiving unit control unit 4 are integrated by a Steuerein ^¬ 7, such as a processor, central gesteu ert ^¬.

In order to implement a user-dependent control, an input interface 10 can also be used for transmitting / receiving

Input control data ES from / to an input unit FB be ^¬ see, the input control data ES from / to the control unit unit 7 are transmitted. Preferably, a remote control will be used as input ^¬ unit FB.

Furthermore, the set-top box extension can STBE an audio data interface 8 gen for receiving an input audio signal MS from an audio recording unit M, such as ei ^¬ nem microphone, and an image data interface 9 for are received, ^¬ from a Image input signal KS from an image recording unit K, such as a camera, received, wherein the audio input signal MS and the image input signal KS can also be supplied to the signal processing unit 5 as input signals. Preferably, the microphone M is arranged outside of the visible via the camera K image detail. Optionally, the microphone M can be integrated in the remote control FB. The image recording unit K can preferably be arranged or integrated on the output unit or the TV set TV.

The signal processing unit 5 now has a plurality of basic functionalities that can be controlled by the control unit 7. On the one hand Signalverarbei ^¬ can processing unit 5, a signal selection perform, whereby either the telecommunications input signal ND-NE or the consumer electronic input signal ND-STB as an electronic entertainment output ND TV is outputted to the output unit or the television set TV. Furthermore, in the presence of the audio and / or picture input signals or the corresponding interfaces 8 and 9, a signal selection by a signal processing unit 5 can be realized in that either the audio and / or image input signal MS and / or KS or the Unterhaltungselektro ^¬ nik input signal ND-STB is output as a telecommunications output signal ND-NA to the telecommunications network.

In addition to this relatively simple signal selection or signal switching, the signal processing unit 5 can further ei ^¬ nen signal mixer for the realization of a signal mixture exhibit. In this case, either the telecommunications input signal ND-NE with the consumer electronics input signal ND-STB are mixed and either are outputted as sub ^¬ consumer electronics output ND TV or as a telecommuni- cation-output ND NA. In particular, the audio and / or picture input signals MS and / or KS can also be mixed with the consumer electronics input signal ND-STB and sent as telecommunication output signal ND-NA to the telecommunication network N or as entertainment electronics output signal ND-TV to the Output unit or the

TV TV will be spent. In this way, a wide variety of signal processing is possible, so that for example on the television TV by means of "picture-in-picture" technology both the incoming from the receiving unit STB input signal ND-STB and the image of the local video camera and / or the image of the remote video telephony subscriber simultaneously output locally and displayed ^¬ who can.

Preferably, the signal processing has a signal format conversion unit or a "transducer" for the realization of a signal format conversion, wherein in particular a signal format conversion of the usual coding of consumer electronics signals in the usual coding of TeIe- communication signals is performed (eg MPEG4 ->

H.263). This conversion is of course also in the reverse direction of the usual coding of the telecommunications signals for the usual coding of entertainment ^¬ electronics signals available. Further, this signal format conversion may also be the signal format of audio and / or video input signal MS and KS in a conventional Sig ^¬ nalformat perform ^¬ for telecommunications signals and / or a übli ^¬ ches signal format for consumer electronic signals. Due to this signal format conversion, the STBE set-top box extension can be adapted to any consumer electronics environment. Furthermore, the signal processing can perform an echo compensation, wherein preferably signal components in the audio and / or image input signal MS and / or KS, which are correlated with the Un ^¬ terhaltungselektronik input signal ND-STB, are completely or at least partially extinguished. Disturbing ^¬ feedback effects while simultaneously implementing a telephony and an output on the TV TV can be effectively prevented. Also, the visibility of the facts, the tracking of a remote sehprogramms while the remote telephony Ge ^¬ sprächsteilnehmer be hidden thereby.

The receiving unit control unit 4 can control, for example, the consumer electronics receiver unit or set-top box STB with regard to their input signal selection. In conjunction with the input unit or remote control FB, this makes it possible to simplify user control via the set-top box extension STBE, since a selection of, for example, available receive programs can take place via a single device. The receiving unit controller 4 can basically control and release, for example, a channels broadcasting over the network (START TV) in this case, the receive functionality of Unterhal ^¬ consumer electronics receiver unit or the set-top box STB or stop (STOP TV ). In this way, in turn, user-controlled or automatic bandwidth problems can be conveniently resolved upon receipt of eg a video call over the network N.

Finally, the receiving unit control unit 4 can also control a recording functionality of the consumer electronics receiving unit or the set-top box STB. Includes when playing as want to control set-top box STB voltage gets a Aufzeich ^¬ for ^¬, the Empfangseinheit- can remotely control the integrated into the set-top box STB recording unit control unit 4, for example, an on ^¬ drawing (Record) or Playback of respective signals. The control of the consumer electronics receiver unit or the set-top box STB is preferably via the telecom ^¬ communication interface 3 via the packet-switching network N or a home network indirectly. In principle, however, an immediate control of the set-top box STB by the receiving unit control unit 4 via a specially designed control interface 11 are performed, such as an infrared interface (IR). The control of the signal processing unit 5 and the receiving control unit 4 can be both automatically in

Dependent on each present or non-present input signals and / or depending on a user input by means of the control unit 7 are performed.

In this way, you get an IP telephony extension that can work with any receiving devices in an entertainment electronics environment. Furthermore, it is also possible to realize a so-called "stand-alone" solution if, for example, only video telephony via IP is required.

Furthermore, a dependent remote ^{operability of} existing in the sub ^¬ haltungelektronik environment set-top boxes via eg an Ethernet interface or an existing home gateway is possible. For example, HTTP could be used as protocol here. Supported by the resources of the consumer electronics environment, moreover, comprehensive telephone features are possible. A video mail support is thus possible without further accessories.

Furthermore, a trouble-free, possibly for the remote participants imperceptible simultaneous video telephony and television (BTV, VoD, Internet) are possible.

To illustrate the present invention, Figure 2 shows a simplified representation of a Unterhaltungselektro ^¬ nik environment in which the inventive set-top box extension STBE can be used according to Figure 1. According to FIG. 2, the processor-controlled set-top box extension STBE according to the invention is operated in a consumer electronics environment with a home network or home network in order to realize the function of a video / telephony extension. Accordingly, the output of the video and audio ^¬ signal of a remote subscriber or telecommunications terminal ^¬ device TE, for example, on the entertainment electronics output unit or the TV set TV done. The input of a local video and audio signal via a Ka ^¬ meraeingang a camera K and a microphone input of a microphone M. The audio data and image data interfaces 8 and 9 can be timely and advantageous according to USB standard (Universal Serial Bus) be. Both the set-top box extension STBE and an existing set-top box STB are connected via a telecommunications interface to the home network or to a home gateway HG, which is connected via a further interface, for example DSL or Ethernet ETH, to a packet-switched network N, which is preferably the Internet, is connected.

According to Figure 2, the subscriber has different example, a TV middleware server Sl services subscribed (Re gister ^¬) so that over the packet-switching network N, for example, video on demand (VOD) from your service provider Pl,

Broadcast TV (BTV) from the service provider P2 or so-called "walled garden" is available from the service provider P3 The connection interface between the set-top box extension STBE and the set-top box STB can be used to transmit both an analogue and analogue In particular, a bidirectional data stream can also be implemented.

Preferably, the set-top box extension STBE has a remote control FB, via which the operator inputs necessary for telephoning are possible. In particular, these are the input of a telephone number or the receipt of a eintref ^¬ fenden call and the activation of audio and / or video deo data signals at the beginning of a call as well as in the current call. The events and operator actions with telephony never relevance, for example, by appropriate "pop-up" - are supported windows and menus on the screen of the output unit or the TV TV Optionally, the micro ^¬ fon M can in the remote control FB the set-top. Box extension STBE integrated.

Furthermore, a non-illustrated personalized Aufzeichnungsein ^¬ unit (PVR, Personalized Video Recorder) can optionally be present in the conventional set-top box STB. These can imagine then the additional interface 11, via the interface 2 (if bidirectional) or via the interface ^¬ 3 and the home network or home gateway HG by the set-top box extension STBE be controlled. Basically, such a recording unit could also intra ^¬ half of the set-top box extension STBE be realized, which, however, the advantage goes ren of access to anyway vorhande ^¬ ne resources in the consumer electronics environment verlo-.

The IP telephony connection is preferably made possible by means of a telephone server SO, in which the subscriber also has to register (Register Call Setup). After such a registration, an IP telephony connection is possible both to a so-called IP-based telecommunication terminal TE and to a conventional telephone or video telephone (not shown) in a circuit-switching network (not shown), but for this purpose further gateways for connecting the circuit-switching Network must be provided to the packet-switching network N.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of which are with ^¬ means of the set-top box extension invention STBE REA lisierbar described in detail, wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding elements as in Figu ^¬ ren 1 and 2 denote, so a repeated Be ^¬ description will be omitted below. The figures 3A to 3C show a simplified arrangement for illustrating an IP-telephony extension in a consumer electronics environment, approximately, for example according to a first exemplary, wherein a "time-shift TV" Darge a recording unit upon receipt of a telephone call ^¬ represents. according to figures 3A to 3C, the entertainment ^¬ electronics-receiving unit or set-top box STB, a local recording unit PVR (Personalized video recorder) on. Although such a recording unit usually in conventional set-top box STB is present anyway, it can basically in other consumer electronic devices such as a VCR, hard disk recorders, etc. are realized and in particular by a server, not shown in the network N be realized (nPVR, network Personalized Video Recorder).

According to FIG. 3A, first of all the packet-switching network N of one of the service providers P1 to P3 offers signals or corresponding TV content from the set-top box STB via the input signal interface 2 of the set-top box extension STBE the consumer electronics output unit or the TV set TV output in the usual way. In this case, the signal processing unit 5 is controlled by the control unit 7 in such a way that the consumer electronics input signal ND-STB is output at the output signal interface 1 as a consumer electronics output signal ND-TV.

Can now enjoy a call or "call" at the time of issue ei ^¬ nes respectively received receive channel (eg BTV), so can the set-top box extension STBE the function of the "pause live TV" be used via recording unit. In principle, it is possible to switch this function manually by remote control of the set-top box STB. This may be useful, for example, when a call comes in from network N or when switching the call from audio to video and is at the discretion of a particular user. configurations However, this can also be done automatically. In this case, the set-top box extension STBE sends the set-top box via, for example, the Ethernet interface or the home gateway HG a corresponding order for recording a BTV program to that in the set-top box STB locally integrated recording unit PVR. This can generally be done when receiving a call, for example, or only during video calls or when switching an audio call to video.

More specifically, in this case, the IP telephony client 6 detects in the set-top box extension STBE the input of an IP telephony connection, whereby the control unit 7 is triggered to perform a corresponding activation of the reception unit control unit 4. The associated order should preferably take place only if the set-top box extension STBE actually receives a consumer electronics input signal ND-STB from the set-top box STB. The set-top box extension STBE may therefore preferably have an input monitoring with which it can detect whether or not an entertainment electronics input signal ND-STB from the set-top box STB is present. After detecting the passage of a ^¬ A B-side call in the telephony client 6 takes the information of the control unit 7, the first advantageous ^¬ adhesive enough, an output of the incoming call sehgerät on the TV remote initiated. This is advantageously done by An ^¬ control of the mixer of the signal processing unit 5. If the called party receives the call, which is also preferably done via the remote control FB, the above-described control of the set-top box STB takes place.

Since the set-top box extension STBE generally does not initially know whether the viewer is watching a broadcast post, a ^video on demand (VoD), an internet page or an already recorded program, it needs information about the channel type of issued consumer electronics input signal ND-STB in order to trigger the appropriate time of jewei ^¬ situation reaction in the set-top box. INS in particular, depending on BTV or VOD / record playback, either the PVR recording unit or a respective "pause" function should be triggered, whereas in the case of pure Internet access, no such reaction is necessary, in the simplest case the set-top box Extension STBE over, for example, the Ethernet and the home gateway HG from the set-top box STB in terms of their status and thus reacts appropriately.

If this inquiry is not possible, so are confi ^¬ rierbare alternatives available, the set-top box STB are characterized by the by advanced communications and evaluating the job receipts. As a precautionary measure, the STBE set-top box extension could always first specify a "Pause VoD / PVR" output command, which should be negative

Receipt leads to a "START PVR" command, which may allow the conclusion to "gaming" or "Internet" operation at a- bermaliger negative acknowledgment, which thus no further re ^¬ actions before switching through the video image of the conversation partners to TV requires TV.

According to Figure 3B, the case of terbrochenen by a video call un ^¬ BTV-program starts is illustrated. After Entge ^¬ gennahme an IP telephony call is switched (Record BTV) and the transmitted Pro ^¬ gram recorded for the duration of the call accordingly takeover operation existing in the set-top box STB recording unit on ^¬.

According to FIG. 3C, after the end of the IP telephony call, the recorded recording of the program in the meantime is reproduced without data loss (Resume BTV). Accordingly ^¬ to the reception unit control unit 4 of the set-top box extension STBE the "Record BTV" instructions for receiving the broadcast transmission and at the end of the call the single command "Resume BTV" for reproducing the recorded data and for possibly further recording the program output. Figure 4 shows a simplified diagram to Veranschauli ^¬ monitoring an IP telephony extension in a consumer electronics environment, according to a second embodiment, wherein like reference characters designate like or corresponding IS elements as describe in the figures 1 to 3, so below a repeated description is waived.

According to Figure 4, the possibility of receiving is further ei ^¬ NES video call displayed on a recording unit. Consequently, the full course can a video call, or extracts thereof, with the set-top box extension STBE on the dene, for example, in the set-top box STB locally EXISTING ^¬ PVR recording unit are recorded. For this purpose, the transducer functionality or signal format conversion present in the signal processing unit 5 is used. In ^¬ play as a bi-directional telephony video data stream (video / audio codec 1), the set-top box encoding after appropriate treatment in a respective signal format (video / audio codec 2) and the set-top box STB via eg the Home gateway HG be supplied. For the set-top box STB the situation requested unencrypted input signal, for example, OFFE one of a streamer ^¬ be given to be played on the recording unit PVR. The necessary switching commands are generated here by the receiver unit control unit 4 and sent via the home network (LAN, local area network) from the set-top box extension STBE to the set-top box STB. As a result, the signal format "Video / Audio Codec 1" is converted by the signal processing unit 5 into the signal format "Video / Audio Codec 2".

After the call has ended, for example, the call thus recorded in the second signal format can be output via the analogue or digital interface between the set-top box extension STBE and the set-top box STB and can be displayed, for example, at the output unit or the TV set TV ^¬ shows. Since the recording recording a video call, as opposed to on ^¬ a video includes two directions (transmit and receive directions), it requires an appropriate processing of signals in the set-top box extension STBE with- means of the signal processing unit 5. For example, the image information of both parties to be merged under each halved use of the display surface of the output unit or the TV TV. Here, too ^¬ additionally, the signal-mixing in the Signalverarbeitungsein- integrated 5 of the set-top box STB be used. It can, however, any other merger be carried out, such as cutting or the output of its own image as a small picture ^¬ the total abandonment of one's own image in the recording. The audio signals or sound signals are added in the simplest case, preferably by volume balance. If the PVR recording unit for simultaneously receiving a plurality of channels capable of so there is also the possibility of the inputs of both partners separately as to deposit jewei ^¬ liges video.

Figure 5 shows a simplified representation of the IP telephony extension in a consumer electronics environment, according to a third embodiment, wherein like ^¬ derum like reference numerals denote like elements as in Figures 1 to 4, will be omitted below a repeated description.

According to Figure 5, the fade-in of a current receiving program is explained in a video call. Accordingly with- means of the set-top box extension inventive STBE also the simultaneous tracking of a program or a remote ^¬ sehfilms and participating in a video-phone call mög ^¬ tally safe, free that the remote caller recognizes this. For this purpose, in the set-top box extension STBE, for example, the consumer electronics input signal coming from the set-top box STB is switched through to the output unit or the television set TV, and the picture and, if appropriate, the latter Audio signal of the remote call participant superimposed by a Sig ^¬ nal mixture.

This is done by suitably mixing both signal streams, for example, in accordance with the user. The remote Ge ^¬ sprächsteilnehmer can not see therefore that the user simultaneously pursued a TV program or a movie, because the signal of the captured by the set-top box STB emp ^¬ program is not made available to him and as the sound of the Television Tone emitted from the sound signal transmitted to him, for example by means of an echo compensator completely or at least partially subtracted or erased. This echo cancellation as ^¬ derum realized by the signal processing unit 5 of the set-top box extension STBE.

Furthermore, it may be that this behavior is limiting in a video telephone conversation. This means that the remote discussion participant would like to be able to experience not only the picture of the conversation partner but also his / her program / film in the ongoing video telephone conversation. For this purpose, the mixer can top set-box extension of STBE not only make the issue towards the own Fernsehge ^¬ Raets TV but also in the direction of the output to the remote call participant telecommunications output ND NA. The remote party can then receive the image of the user and also the image of the television program or film in a suitable image division and the sound signal of the user and the television program added according to the user's volume rating.

FIGS. 6A to 6C are simplified diagrams showing an IP telephony extension in a consumer electronics environment according to a fourth embodiment, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements in FIGS. 1 to 5, and a repeated description will be omitted. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 6A to 6C, bandwidth management is handled in parallel operation of video call and received program. According to FIG. 6A, for example, a video on demand (VoD) is received by a service provider Pl via the network N in the set-top box STB and via the set-top box extension STBE to the output unit or the television set TV output. If a bandwidth of the network access (DSL / ETH, Ethernet) is not sufficient for a simultaneous transmission of the received film video and the incoming video call, then the STBE set-top box extension can freely assume bandwidth management. Accordingly, if there is a telephone call or video call from the network N, or should be switched from egg ^¬ nem audio call to video, the set-top box extension STBE preferably asks the presence of a consumer electronics input signal from the set - Top box STB off. If there is no input signal ND-STB, the telephone call is switched through. However, if an input signal ^¬ ND-STB, the set-top box extension asks STBE from the set-top box STB in terms of their state. This ge ^¬ schieht turn on the receiver unit control unit 4. For example, a broadcast program (BTV) or Video on Demand (VOD) streaming, which is written to the local Aufzei- monitoring unit PVR so notified the set-top box Extension STBE the user to decide on the desired behavior. Runs on the other hand not on ^¬ drawing on the recording unit PVR, the reception channel can be switched off via the command interface or on a break of the video on demand (VoD) are triggered and the telecommunications input signal of the video telephony then via the signal processing unit 5 to the output unit TV be switched through.

If a recording or recording is running on the local recording unit PVR and the viewer still wants to accept the video call, then the shutdown / interruption of the recording can also take place via the control of the set-top box extension STBE. After the phone call has ended the automatic resume the interruption of the interrupted reception / program or the continuation of the interrupted video-on-demand output. Both are initiated by the receiving unit control unit 4 of the set-top box extension STBE, preferably being the section ^¬ stop 3 as a command interface via the home gateway HG for the set-top box STB is used.

Basically, such a control may in turn via an additional interface 11 or via a DIRECT BI ^¬ dimensional interface 2 are performed, if any. According to FIG. 6B, the command "STOP BTV" is consequently output via the interface 3 to the set-top box, whereby the "streaming" of the received transmitter is ended and additional bandwidth for the home network is created. The phone call and the video call can be followed in the usual way via the packet-switched network N Runaway ^¬ leads. According to FIG. 6C, after terminating the IP telephony connection to the remote telecommunication terminal TE, a command "START BTV" is again sent to the set-top box STB by the receiving unit control unit 4, as a result of which the set-top box STB is again inserted into the returns the original program to the television set via the set-top box extension STBE.

Figures 7A and 7B show simplified views illustrating an IP-telephony extension in a consumer electronics environment, according to a fifth embodiment, wherein like reference numerals identify like elements illustrated as in figures 1 to 6 will be omitted below to as ^¬ peated Description ,

According to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the functionality of a video mail support by means of the set-top box extension is described.

According to this fifth embodiment, the set top box extension STBE enables the use of the external resources in the consumer electronics environment and, for example, the recording unit PVR of the set-top box STB as multimedia ^¬ video / video answering machine. If, according to FIG. 7A, a telephone call arrives that can not or should not be answered in a configurable time, the STBE set-top box extension preferably initiates the receipt of the external call as a video call. Here, a video / audio is first as a telecommunications output ND NA sets data signal off in the direction of the remote caller TE, pitted that of a recording unit PVR of the set-top box STB pre-preserved recording and via the input ^¬ signal interface 2 the signal processing unit 5 is ^¬ leads. For this purpose, the set-top box extension STBE or its receiving unit control unit 4 starts the output of the recorded content, for example via the telecommunications interface to the set-top box STB (ETH / LAN). ^¬ storage format of the recorded video is welcome beispielswei ^¬ se the signal format of the set-top box STB (eg MPEG4). The output in the direction of STBE set-top box expansion usually takes place after decoding in an analog / digital TV format as a signal format.

In the signal processing unit 5 of the set-top box extension STBE, the transcoding or signal format conversion now takes place to the video / audio format (video / audio codec 1) of the IP telephony connection agreed with the remote call partner. With receipt of the stored video message of distant interlocutors may for example be required to ^¬ to deposit a preferably video information comprehensive message. This arrives as a telecommunication input signal ND-NE in the negotiated for the IP-telephony connection audio and video encoding and the signal processing unit 5 is supplied. Subsequently, again a signal format conversion to the filing format of the set-top box (eg Video / Audio Codec 2) takes place, the converted signal now being a telecommunication output signal ND-NA via the telecommunication interface 3 and the home gateway HG is forwarded to the set-top box STB and its recording unit PVR.

At the same time, the receiving unit control unit 4 of the set-top box STB can be given the control command for recording a video from a video server, whereby the action of picking up the set-top box STB by the set-top box extension STBE is signaled by switching the call via the command interface 3.

The characteristics of the caller-specific playing of welcome videos can optionally be supported by the STBE set-top box extension. For this purpose, beispielswei ^¬ se an evaluation of the "call set-up message" (eg, SIP invite) by the IP telephony client 6 in terms characterizing the original information (Calling Line Identification or equivalent information) is required. The desired welcome video can it be configured in turn via the set-top box extension STBE.

In Figure 7B, the reproduction of the drawing ^¬ Neten video message is shown, for example, the set-top box expansion recorded by the Empfangsein ^¬ integrated control unit 4 STBE the command "Play recorded message" from the recording unit PVR Video message of the caller ^¬ subscriber after a possible signal format conversion in the set-top box extension STBE on the TV TV is output.

The functionality of such a realized Multime ^¬ dia / video answering machine, the set-top box STB to be active in addition to the current reception (BTV / VoD / Internet). Further, it may occasionally be activated via the remote control FB if the viewer after the pop-up of the identifier of the caller prefers to continue to follow the received program to ver ^¬ instead of the telephone call receive. In this case, the input of the remote party can as a picture on the TV TV and its sound be mixed to ^¬ via the signal mixture of the signal processing unit 5. If, contrary to the expectation of the user, an interesting telephone call is now available, he can receive the telephone call via the set-top box extension STBE via operating inputs on, for example, the remote control FB and, for example, cancel the ongoing recording. Here, the other options listed in the embodiments 1 to 3 can be additionally realized.

The set-top box STB consequently supports the recording of a video greeting message by recording the information on the recording unit PVR and simultaneous mitlau ^¬ fender output of this image information as a full image or partial image on the output unit or the TV set TV. The control unit 7 of the set-top box extension STBE in this case controls the signal processing unit 5 in a suitable manner. In addition, the resources of the entire consumer electronics environment are available for composing perfect welcome videos.

Although usually a local recording unit electronics environment is used as a recording unit PVR in one of the devices of the entertainment ^¬, a network-based recording unit can basically (not ones shown, presents) are used, for example, is provided by a On ^¬ drawing server in the network.

Figure 8 shows a simplified flow diagram illustrating ^¬ lichung essential steps to support IP telephony in a consumer electronics environment.

According to FIG. 8, after a start in step SEO, first input signals in the set-top box extension STBE are received and evaluated (step SEI). These are, for example, how they can come from a set-top box STB entertainment electronics input signals ND-STB at ^¬ play wise and / or input signals ES, SD, ND-NE as those during an IP telephony connection. In a step SE2 becomes detects the presence of an IP telephony connection in the telecommunication input signal. As soon as an IP telephony connection or an incoming call is present, a configurable control of a signal processing and / or a configurable control of an external Unterhal ^¬ tungselektronik receiving unit such as a set-top box STB. Preferably, upon arrival of a call ei ^¬ ne visualization of this event on the television set TV is carried out, which is done via the signal processing unit 5 under control of the control unit. 7 Only after the user has been entered to receive the call is the activation of the consumer electronics receiving unit STB carried out in step SE3. In a subsequent step SE4, the input signals for generating an entertainment output signal and / or a telecommunications

Output signal ND-NA processed so that a ge ^¬ wished functionality results and the processed signals in a step SE5 can be given ^¬ at least at the output unit TV. In addition to the generated entertainment tung output signal can also be a corresponding output of telecom signal is output to the telecommunications interface ^¬ point. The process ends in step SE6.

The control of the consumer electronics receiving unit STB according to step SE3, and the processing of the Eingangssig ^¬ nal for generating output signals in step SE4, and the respective outputting the output signals generated in turn can be controlled such the as embodiments described as an example ^¬ that according to Figures 3 to 7 can be realized.

According to FIG. 8, as an alternative or in addition to the steps SEI to SE5 described above, user inputs and / or disconnection during an existing telephony connection can be evaluated in a further method step SE2 '. If, accordingly, such user inputs or the case of a connection degradation, these lead to the renewed execution of the method steps SE3 to SE5 or to end the procedure. The background is that a loading ^{information model} according to a variety of possibilities for manipulation has user in an active connection in terms of the output signals has already ben as previously described in detail.

For completeness, it should be noted that the method also supports an outgoing call. It is therefore taken at ^¬, the user is a consumer electronics output that followed, bringing the procedure in the state SEI is. If an outgoing call is to be set up, this is done via inputs via the input unit or remote control FB. As a result, after the call has been accepted by the called subscriber, a connection is established which is detected according to method step SE2 and results in method steps SE3 to SE5. On the basis of these method steps, for example and preferably on the local television set TV, the own picture, picture and sound of the output signal of the consumer electronics receiving unit STB as well as picture and sound of the remote telephony subscriber TE can be output and at the same time the own picture and the output signal of the television set TV adjusted own sound signal in the direction of the remote telephony subscriber from ^{¬ be} given.

In the conversation state, in turn, the method step SE2 'can be used, which enables the manipulation of the output signals in accordance with the specifications of the user and here ^¬ in each case the repeated execution of the method steps SE3 to SE5 has the consequence. In process step SE2 'the lo ^¬ kale termination of the call has another execution of the method steps SE3 to SE5 result, so, for example, the through-connection of the output signal of the entertainment electric ^¬ nik-receiving unit STB to the TV set TV. The process step SE2 'is left by the termination of the connection, whereby the method step SE6 is achieved. The latter also takes place upon termination of the connection by the remote subscriber. The invention has been described using a set-top box STB and a TV TV within a home Networks at ^¬ way of example. However, it is not limited thereto and in the same way also includes alternative entertainment ^¬ electronics receiving units and consumer electronics output units. Furthermore, the invention has been described with reference to a video telephone call. However, it is not limited to this and includes in the same way pure audio telephone calls, pure image transmission or other data which can usually be transmitted via IP in a packet-switched network.

Claims

claims

1. A device for supporting IP telephony in an entertainment electronics environment, comprising: a receiving unit control unit (4) for controlling a Un ^¬ terhaltungselektronik receiving unit (STB); a signal processing unit (5) for processing a received consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) and / or a telecommunications input signal (ND-NE) and for generating a consumer electronics output signal (ND-TV) and / or a telecommunications output signal (ND -N / A) ; an IP telephony client (6) for realizing an IP telephony connection; and a control unit (7) for controlling the signal processing ^¬ unit (5), the IP telephony client (6) and the receiving ^¬ unit control unit (4).

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) further processes a local audio input signal (MS) and / or a local image input signal (KS).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit (7) transmits input control data (ES) from / to an input unit (FB).

4. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) a signal selection for selecting the telecommunication input signal (ND-NE) or the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) as consumer electronics output signal ( ND-TV) realized.

5. Device according to one of the claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) a signal selection for selecting the audio and / or image input signal (MS, KS) or the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) implemented as a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA).

A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) provides a signal mix for mixing the telecommunications input signal (ND-NE) and the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) to a consumer electronics output signal (ND-TV) reali ^¬ siert.

7. Device according to one of the claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) a signal mixture for mixing the audio and / or image input signal (MS, KS) with the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) realized to a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA).

8. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) realizes a signal format conversion for converting a signal format of Unterhal ^¬ tungselektronik signals into a signal format of Telekommuni ^¬ cation signals and vice versa.

9. Device according to one of the claims 4 to 8, characterized in that a function of the signal processing unit (5) by input via the input unit (FB) input control data

(ES) is controlled.

10. Device according to one of the claims 2 to 9, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) implements a signal format conversion for converting the signal format of the audio and / or picture input signal (MS, KS) into the signal format of the telecommunication signals and / or the entertainment electronics signals.

A device according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that the signal processing unit (5) provides echo cancellation for completely or partially canceling out signal components in audio and / or picture input signals correlated with the consumer electronics input signal, realized.

12. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the receiving unit control unit (4) controls a ^{Eingangsig ¬} nal selection (Pl, P2, P3) of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB).

13. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the receiving unit control unit (4) controls a receiving functionality (START TV, STOP TV) of the entertainment electronics receiving unit (STB).

14. The device according to claim 13, characterized in that the reception functionality (START TV, STOP TV) is controlled in response to a receipt or termination of a call via the IP telephony client (6).

15. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the receiving unit control unit (4) a recording and / or playback functionality (Record, Play, ...) of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) controls ,

16. The device according to claim 15, characterized in that the control of the recording and / or playback functionality is carried out in dependence on criteria.

17. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that the criterion for the control of the recording functionality is a user input via the input unit (FB) or the acceptance of a call via the IP telephony client (6).

18. The device according to claim 16, characterized in that the criterion for the control of the playback functionality is a user input via the input unit (FB).

19. Device according to one of the claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the signal received via the telecommunication interface and optionally converted signal (ND-NE) of the recording function ^¬ tality of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) at the request of the user via the input unit (FB ) or automatically supplied.

20. Device according to one of the claims 16 to 19, characterized in that one of the playback functionality of the entertainment electronics receiving unit (STB) received signal (ND-STB) as consumer electronics output signal (ND-TV) and / or if necessary . After signal conversion as a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA) at the request of the user via the input unit (FB) or automatically output.

21. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 20, characterized that the receiver unit controller (4) controls the entertainment electronics ^¬ receiving unit (STB) for indirectly via a Te ^¬ lekommunikation used interface (3).

22. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the receiving unit control unit (4) controls the entertainment ^¬ electronics receiving unit (STB) directly via an additional control interface ^¬ (11, 2).

23. Device according to one of the claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the receiving unit control unit (4) is automatically and / or in response to a user input by means of the control unit (7) controllable.

A method for supporting IP telephony in a consumer electronics environment comprising the steps of: receiving (SEI) consumer electronics input signals (ND-STB), telecommunications input signals (SD, ND-NE), and input control data (ES ) from an input unit (FB);

Detecting (SE2) an IP telephony connection in the telecommunication input signal (SD, ND-NE); Driving (SE3) an entertainment electronics receiving unit (STB) in response to the detected IP telephony connection;

Processing (SE4) the input signals to generate a consumer electronics output signal (ND-TV) and / or a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA); and

Outputting (SE5) the generated consumer electronics and / or telecommunications output signal.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the control of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB), the processing of the input signals takes place and / or the output of the generated output signal in depen ^¬ dependence of the received input control data (ES).

26. The method according to claim 24 or 25, characterized by the further steps. Receiving ei ^¬ nem audio input signal (MS) from an audio recording unit (M); and

Receiving an image input signal (KS) from a video recording unit (K), the audio and video input signal (MS, KS) being supplied to the signal processing unit (5).

27. The method according to any one of the claims 24 to 26, characterized by the further steps

Send / receive input control data (ES) from / to an input unit (FB), the processing being controlled in response to the input control data (ES).

28. Method according to one of the claims 24 to 27, characterized in that during the processing a signal selection is carried out, wherein the telecommunication input signal (ND-NE) or the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) as an entertainment electronics output signal (ND-TV) is selected.

29. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 28, characterized in that a signal selection is performed during processing, wherein the audio and / or image input signal (MS, KS) or the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) as TeIe communication output signal (ND-NA) is selected.

30. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 29, characterized in that during processing, a signal mixture is performed, wherein the telecommunications input signal (ND-NE) with the Consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) to a Un ^¬ terhaltungselektronik output signal (ND-TV) is mixed.

31. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 30, characterized in that during processing, a signal mixing is performed, wherein the audio and / or image input signal (MS, KS) with the consumer electronics input signal (ND-STB) to a telecommunications output signal (ND-NA) is mixed.

32. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 31, characterized in that carried out in processing a signal format conversion, wherein a signal format of the consumer electronics signals is converted into a signal format of the telecommunications signals and vice versa.

33. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 32, characterized in that during processing, a signal format conversion is performed, wherein a signal format of the audio and / or image input signal (MS, KS) in a signal format of the telecommunication ^¬ signals and / or the consumer electronics signals is converted.

34. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 33, characterized in that during processing an echo compensation is performed, wherein signal components in the audio and / or BiId input signal, which are correlated with the consumer electronics input signal, partially or completely extinguished ,

35. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 34, characterized in that when driving (SE3) of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) an input signal selection carried out is performed, wherein from a plurality of signal sources (Pl, P2, P3, STBE) a desired signal source is selected.

36. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 35, characterized in that when driving (SE3) of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) is a receiving functionality is ^¬ provides, with a reception of an input signal freige ^¬ give (START BTV) or not released (STOP BTV).

37. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 36, characterized in that when driving (S3) of the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) a recording functionality is set, wherein a record or a play of recorded Input signals is controlled.

38. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 37, characterized in that the consumer electronics receiver unit (STB) is ^¬ barely via the interface used for telecommunications (3) of the receiving unit control unit (4) is driven.

39. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 38, characterized in that the consumer electronics receiver unit (STB) UNMIT ^¬ is driven telbar via a control interface (11) of the receiving unit-control unit (4).

40. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 39, characterized in that the consumer electronics receiving unit (STB) is additionally controlled in response to a user input.